MyCareerCoach.net

This coming Columbus Day I will be walking 39 miles in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. In preparation for the big event, I walked over 5 miles this evening . I started out with a goal to walk 8 miles. By the time I reached Scarsdale, it became apparent that I would only reach 5 or 6 and encounter some unexpected surprises. My shoelaces were tied to tight, the soles of my feet began to ache around mile three and if I continued to sip my bottle of water a more urgent situation was going to occur. Shortly before mile four I was aching to turnaround and head home. However, knowing I was building endurance helped me to push past the aches and continue up a hill. I listened to Anita Baker as I cooled down. I felt great, I completed over five miles, burned 632 calories and walked 17,892 steps and mentally began to plan subsequent walks.

As I reflected on my latest milestone it occurred to me preparing for a marathon was similar to the job search. process. At first a new job seeker, such as a recent college graduate or long time employee, may set his or her goals too high or too low and adjust them as they get more information. Along the way surprises are bound to arise Several of my clients have reported having a great interview only never to hear from the company again. They came to realize how a company treats you during the hiring process is an indication of how they will be treated as an employee. Others, in their haste, prepared a resume that lacked focus and had to invest in having it redone after their goals were more clearly defined. As unemployment rates skyrocketed in the wake of 911, I assisted clients who were out of work for over a year. The ones who were successful stayed focused on their goals and learned how to adjust to market changes by developing new skills and knowledge that gave them the competitive edge.

Whether you are currently in or anticipating being in a job search or marathon here are some ideas to help you reach the finish line:

1. Get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet and exercise, achievement is fueled with energy.
2. Push yourself forward – build on your strengths and recognize your limitations.
3. Stay flexible both in body and mind. Be willing to adjust your goals.
4. Track your progress, even the baby steps add up.
5. Form your own personal cheering section.Tell friends, family, colleagues, coaches and mentors how they can help and support you.
6. Remember the right tools and equipment are an investment not an expense.
7. Reward your accomplishments – even the little ones.
8. Be prepared for the unexpected.
9. Remember challenge is an obstacle waiting to be overcome.